The English Department at the University of South Alabama invites applications for a full-time (9-month), tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor of English with a specialization in Rhetoric and Composition, starting August 15, 2026.
Requirements: Ph.D. in English or closely related field with an emphasis in Rhetoric and Composition. Demonstrable commitment to teaching rhetoric and writing, especially writing in the professions (e.g., digital media, technical writing, editing, grant writing, rhetorics of medicine or science). ABDs will be considered for the Assistant Professor rank, but an earned doctoral degree is required prior to August 15, 2026. Applicants for appointment at the Associate Professor rank will have a strong record of peer-reviewed publications, teaching excellence, and commitment to service.
Desirable: Workplace experience in the production of technical or professional writing. Research or teaching experience involving GenAI, proposals, or professional-writing internships.
To apply, email vita, cover letter, and the contact information for three professional references to Dr. Larry Beason, Chair, Search Committee, c/o Shawn Ash (english). Official transcripts and letters of recommendation will only be requested for candidates who are invited for an on-campus interview.
If you have questions about the search, please email Dr. Larry Beason directly at lbeason.
Review of applications will begin November 10, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.
The Department, University, and Community
A public research university with more than 14,000 students and 115 academic programs, the University of South Alabama is centrally located within America’s Gulf Coast, a rapidly growing region of rich history, fine arts, recreation, and economic opportunity. The Department of English is one of the largest departments at the University, with faculty covering a range of specialties including African American Studies; American, British and world literatures; creative writing; and rhetoric and composition. We administer the university’s first-year composition program and are committed to the teaching of writing at all levels.
Options for undergraduate majors include a concentration in professional writing and editing, with minors in English, creative writing, and professional writing. Our MA program offers courses in literature, rhetoric, professional writing, composition studies, and creative writing, with concentrations in literature and creative writing. The Department of English houses the Stokes Center for Creative Writing, and the department routinely sponsors readings, lectures, forums, and community projects, fostering a vibrant intellectual and creative community at USA.
The University of South Alabama is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression), religion, age, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or any other applicable legally protected basis.
Patrick Shaw, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of EnglishDirector of Composition
University of South Alabama